Earlier today, Bell MTS announced another downsizing of the Manitoba workforce. The Company is seeking to reduce the number of unionized positions by up to 62: 40 from TEAM, 15 from IBEW, and 7 from Unifor. We do not know if any non-unionized positions are targeted for elimination. We understand that the work is being outsourced, broadly, the IT work is going to CGI and property management work to BGIS.

Per the TEAM Collective Agreement, the Company is required to offer a voluntary package prior to laying off any TEAM member. The package being offered is an enhanced VRTIP, the same as was negotiated by TEAM in the May 2017 downsizing. All TEAM members are eligible to apply for the package, including those who are not in an affected VP group. The enhanced VRTIP information package is available from the TEAM office.

Should the Company not achieve the required reductions through the voluntary process, they may choose to invoke Article 27 - Layoff. TEAM will do all it can to keep members employed, and knowing the number and location of all applicants may be critical in discussions around redeployments and saving someone from being laid off. We are therefore asking for your help in tracking and monitoring the progress of the voluntary departure program:

Members in targeted positions: If you are in a targeted position, please click here and provide your name, position title, VP group, the VRTIP Category, and if it is your intention to apply for the enhanced VRTIP or not (or unsure). This information will remain confidential.

Members not in targeted positions: If you are not in a targeted position, but intend to apply for the enhanced VRTIP, please click here and provide your name, position title, VP group, and the VRTIP Category. This information will remain confidential.

Should you wish to have a confidential discussion about your options, TEAM staff are available at: 204-984-9470, 1-877-984-9470